ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — The operator of St. Augustine’s iconic carousel has died, and his widow plans to dismantle the landmark, City Manager John Regan said.
On Monday, City Commissioners asked city staff to see what options might be available to preserve the carousel, which is near the May Street and San Marco Avenue intersection.
“The community was saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Soules last Friday," Regan said in a news release from the City of St. Augustine. "His carousel, a fixture in Davenport Park for the past 20 years, has become something of a landmark for the community. The attraction is a family-operated business and as such it will be the family’s decision regarding its future. The family is aware of options for their legacy to continue and are deeply appreciative of the city and all of the love and outpouring of support from the community.”
Regan added, “The family needs to focus on their immediate priorities and will get back to the city at an appropriate time.”
Commissioner Nancy Sikes-Kline described the carousel as a beloved landmark in the community.
“I think it’s important to do what we can to find a way to preserve it, and perhaps there’s some options if we act quickly,” she said.
J&S carousel was built in 1927. It was moved to St. Augustine Beach in 1993 and then in its current spot in Davenport Park in St. Augustine in 1994.